Strawberry Picnic Thumbprint Cookies (Printable)

Buttery shortbread bites filled with sweet strawberry jam, perfect for summer treats and outdoor snacks.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Dough

01 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
02 - 2/3 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
04 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
05 - 2 cups all-purpose flour

→ Filling

06 - 1/2 cup strawberry jam, seedless preferred

→ Optional Decoration

07 - 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

# How-To:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, approximately 2 to 3 minutes.
03 - Beat in vanilla extract and salt into the creamed mixture.
04 - Gradually add flour to the mixture, stirring just until combined and a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing.
05 - Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into uniform balls. Arrange them 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheets.
06 - Using your thumb or the back of a rounded teaspoon, gently press an indentation into the center of each dough ball.
07 - Fill each indentation with approximately 1/2 teaspoon of strawberry jam.
08 - Bake for 13 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
09 - Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes.
10 - Transfer cookies to a wire rack and allow to cool completely.
11 - If desired, dust cooled cookies with powdered sugar before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Quick and easy to prepare with just 35 minutes from start to finish
  • Perfect for picnics, potlucks, and summer gatherings
  • Buttery shortbread base that melts in your mouth
  • Beautiful presentation with minimal effort
  • Great for bakers of all skill levels
  • Can be customized with different jam flavors
02 -
  • Use seedless jam for the smoothest appearance and texture
  • Don't overmix the dough once you add the flour to keep cookies tender
  • Keep dough balls evenly sized for uniform baking
  • Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet before moving to prevent breakage
  • Always check jam labels if you have allergen concerns
  • Store in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers
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